W.O.N.D.E.R.

Stop by and see us for W.O.N.D.E.R. in the Garden! Together we will imagine, create and explore throughout the Vicky C. and David Byron Smith Children’s Garden with activities that fall under a monthly theme. No registration necessary. All W.O.N.D.E.R programs are included with regular Garden admission.

Monthly themes

November: Tree-mendous Trees

Have you met Chuck? He’s our royal poinciana tree across from the Hamill Cracker House in the Smith Children’s Garden. Come get to know him and all the other trees that live in the Chilren’s Garden and then learn how to make an origami ornament to decorate your own trees at home.

December: Original Origami

This December, help us welcome our newest exhibit Origami in the Garden as we explore the Japanese art of origami. Did you know the word origami literally means ‘folding paper’? Come test your own folding skills as we learn a few of the basic origami folds to create a variety of ornaments and figures.

January: Beautiful Birds

Soar into the New Year as we discuss Florida’s beautiful birds this January. We will learn to identify some of our native birds and their flight behaviors, and even fold some origami models. Discover how humans mimic these flight strategies through designing your own paper airplane to be tested from the tree house!

February: Popular Pollinators

What’s all the buzz about pollinators? Come and join the pollinator party this month and find out! Discover Florida’s native bee species and learn how you can build a bee-friendly habitat in your own backyard. Then, go on a butterfly scavenger hunt in the Pfeffer-Beach Butterfly House and see how many species you can find. It’s sure to bee a great time!

March: Fabulous Flowers

Come celebrate the return of spring by finding out what’s blossoming in the Smith Children’s Garden this month! Explore the anatomy of a flower and create your own flower press to preserve your observations. You can also become a flower expert by learning how to fold an origami flower.

April: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!

Join us this April as we learn about where trash goes and how we can reduce waste to save the planet. Create art using recycled materials and take a journey through the hidden garden to explore some creative ways to ‘reuse’ while growing plants.

May: Harmonious Habitats

Food, water, shelter, space: a habitat is a wonderful place! Head on over to the Smith Children’s Garden this May as we learn about some of our native Florida habitats and the critters that call them home. Then, build a miniature terrarium habitat to care for all on your own.